Caramelitas Dessert Bars -

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Introduction

Caramelitas are an indulgent dessert that combines the richness of caramel with the comforting flavors of chocolate and cookie dough. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. With a gooey center and a crumbly top, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the cookie base and topping:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup rolled oats

For the caramel filling:
– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Prep Time

The prep time for Caramelitas is approximately 15 minutes. This includes gathering all your ingredients and mixing the cookie dough.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for Caramelitas is around 25-30 minutes. Therefore, the total time from start to finish is about 45 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 16 servings, making it a great treat to share with friends and family.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Prepare the Cookie Layer

In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. Gradually add in flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Stir until the ingredients come together to form a dough.

Press the Dough into the Baking Dish

Take two-thirds of the cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure to create an even layer that covers the entire base.

Prepare the Caramel Filling

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the caramel candies with evaporated milk, stirring continuously until smooth and well blended. Once melted, remove from heat.

Layer the Caramel

Pour the melted caramel over the cookie layer in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Add Chocolate Chips

Sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel layer, ensuring they are distributed evenly across the surface.

Add the Top Cookie Layer

Crumble the remaining one-third of the cookie dough over the chocolate chips and caramel. Distribute it evenly but do not worry about covering the entire surface completely.

Bake the Caramelitas

Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the top is lightly golden.

Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares. For cleaner cuts, allow it to cool completely before serving.

Notes

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra treat, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with additional chocolate or caramel sauce.

Variations

Feel free to mix in nuts or substitute peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.

Cook techniques

Layering Flavors

This technique involves adding different layers of ingredients in a specific order to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Baking

Baking is a cooking method that uses dry heat in an oven to cook food evenly. It allows for the perfect texture and flavor development, especially in desserts.

Melting

Melting involves heating solid ingredients, like chocolate or butter, until they become liquid. This technique is crucial for creating smooth textures in various desserts.

Mixing

Mixing combines ingredients to achieve a uniform consistency, which is essential for balancing flavors and ensuring that the dish bakes evenly.

Chilling

Chilling involves placing prepared dishes in the refrigerator to thicken or set. This step is important for achieving the right texture in desserts.

FAQ

What are caramelitas?

Caramelitas are dessert bars that typically consist of a layer of oatmeal cookie, a rich caramel filling, and a crumbly topping.

Can I substitute ingredients in caramelitas?

Yes, you can substitute ingredients like using gluten-free oats or different types of chocolate if you have specific dietary preferences or restrictions.

How do I store caramelitas?

Caramelitas should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

How long do caramelitas last?

When properly stored, caramelitas can last about a week at room temperature or even longer if refrigerated.

Can I freeze caramelitas?

Yes, caramelitas can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Caramelitas are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and oatmeal into one delicious bar. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are easy to make and are sure to impress friends and family. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, caramelitas offer a wonderful balance of textures and tastes that everyone will love.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

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Triple Layer Brownies

For chocolate lovers, triple layer brownies provide a rich, indulgent experience that combines fudgy brownie layers with creamy cheesecake and chocolate ganache.